Roleplaying games or RPGs are quickly rising in popularity and have become an umbrella term for tabletop campaigns that can last for weeks to card games that let you take on the persona of different characters. There are two main styles of roleplaying games: traditional or pen-and-paper style RPGs and party style RPGs.
Traditional roleplaying games
Traditional or pen-and-paper RPGs typically include games like Dungeons and Dragons, Pathfinder or other dice based systems set in various fictional settings. This style of game often relies on a game master (GM) or dungeon master (DM) who is responsible for understanding the mechanics of the game and guiding players through a set story. Traditional roleplaying games games are divided into individual game sessions as part of a larger over-arching story campaign or as a “one-shot” story. Individual game sessions usually last for a number of hours. Players utilize character sheets to identify skills and bonuses their characters have in the story.
Party style roleplaying games
Party style RPGs are more like board games. They may contain a series of storytelling prompts, dice or cards for changing the outcome of the game and possibly a gameboard or map. These games do not require a game master and can be played with minimal set up, allowing players to spend more time playing the games than pen-and-paper RPGs.
Once you’ve decided which style of game you want to play, it’s time to gather your players and get started.
Check out some of my favorite roleplaying games and share your favorite games in the comments below!
| Title | Game Style | Description | Number of Players | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dungeons & Dragons |
Traditional role-playing game using a 20‑sided die system |
Players work together in a fantasy setting to achieve goals and story objectives set by the game master (GM) or dungeon master (DM). Gameplay includes role‑playing, combat, skill checks, and complex mechanics. |
Group size varies based on the GM/DM’s comfort level. Most groups include one GM/DM and three or more players. |
Highly customizable and adaptable to many fictional settings. The most popular and beginner‑friendly version is fifth edition (5e). |
|
Magical Kitties Save the Day , opens a new window |
Traditional role-playing game using a six‑sided die system |
Contemporary setting where players are magical kitties working to improve the lives of their humans and other magical creatures. |
Group size varies based on the GM’s comfort level. Most groups include one GM and three or more players. |
Simpler system than Dungeons & Dragons or Pathfinder, with a strong focus on role‑playing over complex mechanics. |
|
Pathfinder , opens a new window |
Traditional role-playing game using a 20‑sided die system |
Players cooperate in a fantasy setting to complete objectives directed by a game master (GM). Gameplay combines role‑playing, combat, and detailed mechanics. |
Group size varies based on the GM’s comfort level. Most groups include one GM and three or more players. |
Similar to Dungeons & Dragons 3.5 edition, with highly customizable character options. |
|
Betrayal at House on the Hill , opens a new window |
Party game using a board game system and custom dice |
Players explore a haunted house until a story event, known as the “haunt,” is triggered. |
Designed for three to six players with different roles and attributes. |
The haunt is triggered by varying conditions, allowing for frequent replay and different outcomes. |
|
Munchkin |
Party game using a card‑based system |
Players move through a dungeon, collecting loot and defeating monsters to increase their power. |
Designed for three to six players. |
Players may help or interfere with one another. Numerous expansions and themed versions are available. |
|
Pandemic |
Party game using a board game system |
Players form a medical and research team working together to stop the spread of a global virus. |
Designed for two to four cooperative players. | Each player controls a character with unique roles and abilities. |
|
Someone Has Died , opens a new window |
Party game using a card‑based system |
Players gather to hear a will read and attempt to convince the estate keeper why they should inherit the estate. |
Designed for three to six players, each with an assigned identity, backstory, relationship, and objective. |
Improvisational, murder‑mystery‑style gameplay focused on storytelling and persuasion. |
Interested in trying some of these games without a financial commitment? Check out the game collection in the Library of Things to borrow a copy.
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